Intel named as an official technology partner for NBA's esports league

NBA 2K League games will take place on PC, rather than PS4 or Xbox One

Intel has today announced a multi-year agreement to become an official technology partner of the NBA 2K League, the esports league co-founded by the NBA and Take-Two Interactive.

The news comes just ahead of the league's May debut, which will feature 17 NBA teams fielding esports lineups to compete in 2K's NBA 2K basketball games. The announcement also offers information on the league's technology, telling us not only that Intel will be providing the tech for the league but also that games will be played on Alienware PC's powered with eighth generation Intel Core I7-8700K's.

The partnership extends off the court too, as Intel will provide the tech infrastructure for regular season games, tournaments and playoffs.

“Intel plans to provide the best gaming experience for competitors and fans through its cloud to client solutions,” said John Bonini, vice president and general manager of the VR, Gaming and Esports Group at Intel Corporation. “Intel has been a leader in the growth of the esports industry and community for more than 15 years, and the NBA 2K League’s fresh format will be a great showcase for esports.”

Speaking to MCV, Bonini added: "With more than 15 years in the industry, Intel is committed to advancing esports through new and innovative partnerships so it was a natural fit for us to work with the NBA 2K League to deliver our cloud to client solutions and showcase that the best experience for fans and players is on a PC with Intel Core i7 processors."

The tech set-up will free up players to use the controller of their preference in matches, and with the PC version becoming the 'competition standard' it should ensure that extra care and effort is put into the PC production.